Endurance athlete & COUNSELOR
Here to help you train your mind like you train your body.
Introduction
You’ve got grit, discipline, and big goals. But something’s holding you back - and it’s not your physical training. I get it, because I’ve been there too.
I’m Christy: Licensed Professional Counselor, endurance athlete, wife, mom of two, and founder of Unlocked Counseling. With over 20 years of experience in mental health and a personal running resume that includes competing at a high level in the marathon and ultra marathon distance, I know what it takes to push through pain, setbacks, and self-doubt. I also know that sustainable performance and personal growth are only possible when we are able to cultivate a mindset that supports these goals.
At Unlocked Counseling, I believe that achieving your full potential requires a balanced approach - nurturing both the mind and body. Whether you’re working through a personal challenge or aiming to elevate your mental performance in sport, I’m here to help you build confidence, resilience, and momentum.
Christy enjoying the great outdoors in Colorado and New Zealand.
Why I Do This Work
The athlete life is a wild ride. One moment you’re thriving. The next, you're nursing an injury, battling burnout, or facing a wave of self-doubt. I’ve been there - navigating surgery, setbacks, and life transitions while still showing up for the people and passions that matter most.
When I first broke the 3-hour marathon barrier after turning 40, or placed 3rd at the Leadville Trail 100, those victories didn’t just come from training plans - they came from a resilient mindset I built during the toughest seasons of my life.
I created Unlocked Counseling to help athletes and high performers strengthen their mental fitness, move through hard things with self-compassion, and unlock their full potential.
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”
— Pele
My Approach
No cookie-cutter therapy. No cold clinical talk. No pretending sport exists in a vacuum.
My approach is relational and strengths-based, focused on you as a full person, not just the performance metrics or symptoms you're carrying. I combine mental skills training (like mindfulness, visualization, and goal setting) with a deeper understanding of what’s beneath the surface: identity, purpose, fear, pressure, and the stories we tell ourselves.
Sometimes we’ll talk about race-day nerves. Sometimes we’ll talk about relationships, grief, or what’s keeping you up at night. Wherever you’re starting from, I’ll meet you there - with empathy, expertise, and a belief in your capacity to grow.
Whether you're an elite competitor, a recreational runner, a teen athlete, or a parent navigating youth sports culture, this is a space to breathe, be seen, and move forward.
The Personal Side
I’m lucky to do this work while raising two incredible teenage kids in the Colorado mountains with my best friend and adventure partner - my husband, who also happens to be my running coach. We spend as much time outside as possible with our two blue heelers and love packing up our van to unplug and chase wide open skies.
These days, I’m still chasing finish lines and running strong as a Masters athlete but one of my greatest joys is watching my kids discover what excites them in sport and in life.
WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“Since working with CHRISTY, I’ve noticeD a significant improvement in my confidence and overall performance.”
Working with Christy has been a game-changer for both my high school athletics and everyday life. She has helped me navigate the mental chanllenges of competition and the stress that comes with balancing sports, academics, and personal life. Her unique perspectives and practical strategies have given me the tools to manage my overthinking, stay focused, and perform my best. Since working with her, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my confidence and overall performance. I highly recommend Christy Aish to any athlete looking to strengthen their mental game and approach challenges with a clear mindset!
Client | Age 18
Let’s Unlock your potential, together.
Whether you’re recovering from injury, navigating big transitions, or chasing your next PR - this space is here to help you grow, refocus, and move forward with confidence.